WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after Ways and Means Committee Democrats announced that they, along with the House Democratic Leadership, will introduce identical legislation to the Senate-passed middle class tax cuts bill on Monday. Additionally, Ways and Means Democrats will introduce separate legislation offering responsible estate tax relief:

“The Senate’s passage of a tax cut extension for middle-class families and nearly every small business in America must be a signal to House Republicans that they can no longer hold middle class tax relief hostage in return for tax breaks for the wealthiest 2%. After yesterday’s vote in the Senate, House Republicans are now the only ones standing in the way of keeping tax rates low for earnings up to $250,000 – something that should be done without delay.

“I am proud to join the Democratic Leadership and Democrats on the Ways and Means Committee in introducing the Senate’s middle-class tax cut bill here in the House on Monday. House Republicans have no more excuses to obstruct this legislation. I call on them to bring our tax relief plan to the Floor immediately and pass it. Let’s end this unnecessary uncertainty for 98% of families and 97% of small businesses.”